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Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about STI testing, appointments, pricing, and our services.

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Appointments & Access

Do I need to book an appointment or can I walk in?
Both options are available. You can book online for a guaranteed appointment time, or simply walk in during our opening hours. No registration or GP referral is required. We recommend booking during busy periods to avoid waiting.
What are your opening hours?
Monday, Wednesday: 9:00am - 6:00pm
Tuesday, Thursday: 9:00am - 8:00pm
Friday: 8:00am - 5:00pm
Saturday, Sunday: 10:00am - 4:00pm

✓ Open 7 days a week — Walk-ins and pre-booked appointments available every day.
Where is your clinic located?
We are located at 20 Old Brompton Road, South Kensington, London SW7 3DL, just 1 minute walk from South Kensington Underground station (Circle, District, and Piccadilly lines).
How long does an appointment take?
Most STI testing appointments take 15-30 minutes, depending on which tests you require. Comprehensive screens may take slightly longer. We aim to keep waiting times minimal, especially for pre-booked appointments.
Do I need a GP referral?
No, you do not need a GP referral. You can book directly with us or walk in during opening hours. We are a private clinic that provides immediate access to sexual health services without the need for NHS referrals.
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STI Testing

What STIs do you test for?
We offer comprehensive testing for all common STIs including:

View our full range of STI tests.

How quickly can I get STI test results?
Most STI test results are available within 24-48 hours. Our PCR-based testing provides highly accurate results with rapid turnaround. Results are delivered securely via email or through our patient portal. Some tests (such as cultures) may take 3-5 days.
What is the difference between PCR testing and other methods?
PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) testing is the gold standard for STI detection. It detects the genetic material of pathogens, making it highly sensitive and accurate. PCR can detect infections earlier than antibody tests and has very low false-negative rates. All our bacterial and viral STI tests use UKAS-accredited PCR technology.
When should I get tested after potential exposure?
Window periods vary by infection:
  • Chlamydia & Gonorrhoea: 2 weeks after exposure
  • HIV (4th generation test): 4 weeks (conclusive at 6 weeks)
  • Syphilis: 3-4 weeks after exposure
  • Herpes: 2-12 weeks (if no symptoms)
  • Hepatitis B & C: 6-12 weeks

If you have symptoms, you should get tested immediately regardless of timing. Read more about STI testing windows.

What samples are required for STI testing?
Depending on the tests required:
  • Urine sample: For chlamydia, gonorrhoea, mycoplasma, ureaplasma
  • Blood sample: For HIV, syphilis, hepatitis, herpes antibodies
  • Swab samples: From throat, rectum, or genital areas as clinically indicated

Our clinicians will advise on the appropriate samples based on your sexual history and any symptoms.

Can I get tested if I have no symptoms?
Yes, absolutely. Many STIs are asymptomatic, meaning you can have an infection without any noticeable symptoms. Regular screening is recommended if you are sexually active, especially with new or multiple partners. Asymptomatic testing is one of the most common reasons patients visit our clinic.
How often should I get tested?
We recommend:
  • After every new sexual partner
  • Annually if sexually active with multiple partners
  • Every 3 months if you have multiple partners or are at higher risk
  • Immediately if you have symptoms or known exposure

Read our guide on how often you should get tested.

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Confidentiality & Privacy

Is STI testing confidential?
Yes, all testing is 100% confidential. We do not notify your GP or share results with anyone without your explicit written consent. Your medical records are stored securely and are only accessible to our clinical team.
Will my GP be informed about my visit?
No. We do not send any letters or notifications to your GP unless you specifically request us to do so. Your visit and results remain completely private between you and our clinical team.
Will my name be called out in the waiting area?
Our nursing staff will call patients by the name they provide when registering. You can choose to use a different name if you prefer, and no other patients will know what your test is for - everything remains completely discrete. You can also specify the name you want on your test results and choose your preferred email address for receiving results, or simply request to collect hard copy results without any email communication.
How are my results delivered?
Results are delivered securely via encrypted email or through our secure patient portal. We do not send results by post or leave voicemails. You can choose your preferred method of communication when you visit.
Do you accept cash payments?
Yes, we accept cash payments as well as all major credit/debit cards and contactless payments. Paying by cash means there is no trace of your visit on bank statements, providing an additional layer of privacy.
Is a deposit required when booking?
No, we do not require any deposit when booking an appointment. You pay at the clinic after your consultation. This means no payment trail until you actually visit.
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Pricing & Payment

How much does STI testing cost?
Our pricing varies depending on the tests required:
  • Individual tests: From £45
  • Basic STI screen: From £195
  • Comprehensive STI screen: From £295
  • Full sexual health screen: From £395-£495

View our complete pricing guide for detailed costs.

Why is private testing more expensive than NHS?
Private testing offers significant advantages: same-day appointments (vs weeks of waiting), results in 24-48 hours (vs 7-14 days), complete confidentiality (no GP notification), and access to a wider range of tests. Many patients find the convenience, speed, and privacy worth the investment.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept cash, all major credit cards, debit cards, and contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay). No deposit is required when booking online.
Do you offer package deals?
Yes, our comprehensive screening packages offer better value than individual tests. Our most popular packages include:
  • Essential Screen: Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, HIV, Syphilis
  • Comprehensive Screen: All of the above plus Hepatitis B & C, Herpes
  • Ultimate Screen: Full panel including Mycoplasma, Ureaplasma, Trichomoniasis

View all testing packages.

Can I claim on health insurance?
Many private health insurance policies cover sexual health testing. We can provide itemised receipts for you to submit to your insurer. Please check with your insurance provider about your specific coverage.
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Treatment & Results

Do I need to tell my partner(s)?
If you test positive for an STI, it is important to inform recent sexual partners so they can also get tested and treated. This prevents reinfection and stops further spread.

You are not legally required to tell partners, but it is strongly encouraged for health reasons.

Can STIs be cured?
Most bacterial STIs can be completely cured with antibiotics:
  • Curable: Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, Syphilis, Trichomoniasis, Mycoplasma, Ureaplasma
  • Manageable: HIV (with antiretroviral therapy), Herpes (with antivirals), Hepatitis B & C (treatments available)

Early detection and treatment leads to the best outcomes for all STIs.

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About Our Clinic

Is your clinic regulated?
Yes, our clinic is fully CQC (Care Quality Commission) regulated, ensuring we meet the highest standards of safety and clinical excellence in the UK. All our doctors are GMC-registered, and our laboratory partners are UKAS-accredited.
Who will I see at my appointment?
You will be seen by a qualified healthcare professional, either a GMC-registered doctor or an experienced sexual health nurse. All our clinicians are trained in sexual health and are non-judgmental and discreet.
Is your clinic suitable for LGBTQ+ patients?
Absolutely. We welcome all patients regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, or relationship status. Our clinicians are experienced in providing inclusive, non-judgmental care for LGBTQ+ individuals and can advise on specific testing recommendations based on your circumstances.

Still Have Questions?

Our friendly team is here to help. Contact us directly or book a consultation to discuss your concerns with a healthcare professional.

Or call us directly: 020 7183 0494